Disney creates video streaming unit

The Walt Disney Company has created a new unit for its streaming video and international businesses “to capitalise on today’s rapidly changing media landscape and more closely align with the Company’s priorities for future growth.”

Kevin Mayer, the company’s chief strategy officer, has been named chairman of the new division, which will oversee the upcoming ESPN+ digital offering and the launch of a family-oriented streaming service in 2019, Disney said in a statement.

“We are strategically positioning our businesses for the future, creating a more effective, global framework to serve consumers worldwide, increase growth, and maximise shareholder value,” said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “With our unparalleled Studio and Media Networks serving as content engines for the Company, we are combining the management of our direct-to-consumer distribution platforms, technology and international operations to deliver the entertainment and sports content consumers around the world want most, with more choice, personalisation and convenience than ever before.”

The Disney-branded direct-to-consumer streaming service, which will launch in late 2019 and has yet to be named, will be the exclusive home for SVoD viewing of the newest live-action and animated movies in the pay-TV window from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Lucasfilm. Last week, Disney revealed it had hired Jon Favreau to create a new Star Wars live action TV show for the service.